The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), is moving to streamline the process for securing mining permits through proposed amendments to DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2010-21.
Philippine Resources reported that during a stakeholders’ consultation held on January 30, 2025, in Quezon City, industry leaders, government agencies, local officials, media representatives, academics, and civil society organizations gathered to discuss regulatory changes aimed at expediting the approval of mining permits.
Stakeholders were divided into five sectoral groups—mining industry, national government, local government units, media and academe, and civil society organizations—to discuss the amendments and provide feedback.
The amendments seek to improve the efficiency of applications for Exploration Permits, Mineral Agreements, and Financial or Technical Assistance Agreements (FTAA), reducing bureaucratic delays and fostering transparency in the mining sector.
DENR Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns and MGB OIC Director Engr. Michael V. Cabalda stressed the need for a regulatory framework that balances industry growth with responsible environmental management.
The proposed revisions will establish clearer timelines, eliminate redundant procedures, and integrate digital tools to streamline the permit processing system.
Key concerns raised included maintaining stringent environmental oversight while accelerating the approval process, ensuring local communities benefit from mining operations, and incorporating digital monitoring for greater accountability.
MGB OIC-Assistant Director Engr. Teodorico A. Sandoval outlined the primary objectives of the consultation, underscoring the importance of regulatory efficiency in attracting investments while ensuring environmental safeguards.
Meanwhile, Atty. Josephine V. Sescon, OIC-Chief of the MGB Legal Service Division, presented specific amendments designed to expedite applications and ensure compliance with global mining standards.
Additionally, Engr. Marcial H. Mateo, Chief of the Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division, stated that stakeholder input would be incorporated into the final revisions before submission for approval and implementation.
The streamlined permitting process is expected to enhance investor confidence, generate employment, and contribute to economic growth while maintaining strict environmental compliance.
DENR encourages stakeholders to stay engaged in the policy refinement process to ensure a balanced approach to mining regulation that benefits both industry and communities.
